Box 3 “Social security wages”: Social security wages are calculated as Federal Taxable Gross (Box 1) plus Retirement Deductions (Box 12). The maximum social security wage amount for 2012 is $110,100. Box 4 “Social security tax withheld”: This is social security tax withheld from your pay.

Does your W-2 have your Social Security number on it?

Your Social Security Number (SSN) is reported in box (a). You should always double-check this to make sure it’s correct. If it’s not correct, you need to request a new form W-2 from your employer. An error could slow the processing of your return.

What does box 3 on a W-2 mean?

Box 3 of the W-2 indicates your taxable wages for Social Security tax purposes. Box 5 shows your taxable wages for Medicare tax purposes. Both Social Security and Medicare taxes are commonly called FICA taxes because they are collected under the authority of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act.

What do the codes mean on the W2 form?

Answer. The W2 boxes and codes show the wages you’ve earned and any taxes paid through withholding. To help you understand your Form W2, we’ve outlined each of the W-2 boxes and the corresponding W2 box codes below. Box 1 — Shows your wages, tips, prizes, and other compensation for the year.

Do you pay Social Security taxes on W-2 box 1?

If an employee elected to contribute to a pre-tax retirement plan, their W-2 Box 1 wages are likely lower than their Box 3 wages. An employee’s elected retirement plan contributions are not subject to federal income taxes. However, these contributions are subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes.

Where is Social Security number reported on W-2?

Your Social Security Number (SSN) is reported in box (a). You should always double-check this to make sure it’s correct. If it’s not correct, you need to request a new form W-2 from your employer. An error could slow the processing of your return. Box b. Your employer’s EIN is reported in box (b).